Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde has signed an executive order restricting the operation of motorcycles across the state between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. as part of new measures aimed at addressing growing security concerns.
The directive comes in the wake of the abduction of teachers and schoolchildren in the state, a development that has attracted public attention and renewed calls for stronger security interventions.
The governor announced the restriction while reaffirming his administration’s determination to secure the safe release of the victims and improve safety across affected communities.
Fresh security measures introduced
According to the state government, the restriction on nighttime motorcycle operations is intended to limit the movement of criminal elements who often use motorcycles to carry out attacks and transport victims through difficult terrains.
Security analysts and residents have long expressed concerns about the use of motorcycles in rural and forested areas where kidnappers and other criminal groups operate.
The latest directive is expected to affect commercial and private motorcycle riders during the restricted hours.
Speaking on the decision, Governor Makinde said:
“The operation of motorcycles will now be restricted between the hours of 10:30pm and 5:30am. We will not relent until our kidn@pped teachers and school children return home safely. Every day they remain in cåptivity is a painful day for their families and all of us in Oyo”
Focus on abducted victims
The governor stressed that efforts to rescue the abducted teachers and pupils remain ongoing, with security agencies continuing operations aimed at securing their freedom.
The incident has sparked concern among residents, particularly parents and community leaders, who have called for urgent action to prevent further attacks on schools and rural communities.
Many Nigerians have also taken to social media to discuss the new restriction, with reactions ranging from support for the measure to concerns about its impact on legitimate nighttime transportation.
The development highlights the growing focus on security measures by state governments as they seek to address kidnapping and other criminal activities affecting local communities.
